The first of 30 new E-Class trams ordered by the Andrews Labor Government will begin operating on the world’s biggest tram network today. Premier Daniel Andrews joined Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan in Wellington Parade to inspect tram 51, before it and tram 52 entered into passenger service.
“These trams will carry hundreds more passengers around our city and we can be proud they’re designed and built in Victoria.” Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan commented “The former Liberal Government didn’t order a single new tram in four years. We’ve already ordered 30 to support jobs and carry more passengers on the world’s biggest tram network.”
Minister Allan went on to explain that the low-floor E-Class trams are the biggest and most accessible in Victoria, with low floors, more myki readers, better information and space for more than 200 passengers. They include audio and visual passenger information, air conditioning and dedicated spaces for passengers with prams and mobility aids.
“We’re building bigger, better trams in Melbourne, for Melbourne – supporting hundreds of local jobs.” Premier Daniel Andrews commented “The E-Class tram is local manufacturing at its best – and we can take great pride that these locally manufactured trams will move locals and tourists efficiently and comfortably around our city.”
The Premier pointed out that Trams 51 and 52 are the first of 20 ordered by the Labor Government in 2015 to enter service, and will operate on routes 96, 86 and 11. Premier Andrews went on to explain that the Victorian Budget 2017/18 funded a further 10, taking the total number of E-Class trams to be purchased to 80 adding that the Trans were built in Victoria and supported 500 local jobs at Bombardier in Dandenong and local suppliers. All 80 trams, are expected to be in service by mid-2019, providing space for more than 17,000 extra passengers.